Every year, Country Radio Seminar (CRS) sets the tone for the next wave of country music dominance, and if history tells us anything, the artists getting prime stage time at this year’s event are the ones about to take over your playlists, airwaves, and headlines.
With major record labels strategically showcasing their biggest bets, CRS 2025 is giving us a clear look at who’s about to break big, who’s getting a resurgence, and who’s positioning themselves as country’s next superstars. Here’s who you need to have on your radar for the next 12 months.
UMG at The Ryman: The Power Players and Rising Stars
Universal Music Group is bringing out a stacked mix of legacy acts and fresh faces at their Team UMG at The Ryman luncheon. Expect Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborne, Luke Bryan, Jordan Davis, Eric Church, Vince Gill, Tyler Hubbard, Parker McCollum, Brad Paisley, Jon Pardi, and Josh Ross to continue dominating stadiums and radio.
But keep a sharp eye on Carter Faith, Belle Frantz, Bryce Leatherwood, Vincent Mason, Crowe Boys, and Tucker Wetmore—if UMG is giving them prime CRS real estate, expect major marketing pushes, single releases, and breakout moments ahead.
Warner Music Nashville’s Ones to Watch
Warner is going all-in on Gavin Adcock, Avery Anna (with special guest Sam Barber), Tyler Braden, Chase Matthew, Redferrin, and Hudson Westbrook at their CRS Luncheon. These are the names to watch for big single launches, viral moments, and potential festival takeovers this summer.
The “New Faces of Country” Are About to Be Everywhere
CRS New Faces of Country Music® Show has a history of predicting the next big radio mainstays—past performers include Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson, and Luke Combs. This year’s class is packed with potential:
- Drew Baldridge (Lyric Ridge/BMG/Stoney Creek)
- Ashley Cooke (Big Loud/Back Blocks)
- Dasha (Warner Records)
- Zach Top (Leo33)
- Warren Zeiders (Warner Records)
If you aren’t already paying attention to these names, you will be by year’s end.
Amazon Music is Playing the Long Game
Amazon is making a big play with its “Country Heat” showcase, featuring Jordan Davis, Graham Barham, Lanie Gardner, Noeline Hofmann, and Vincent Mason. With its massive streaming power and in-house country music podcast, Amazon Music is positioning these artists for major exposure in 2025—expect to see them popping up in curated playlists and exclusive live sessions.
Eric Church & Jelly Roll: The Conversation We All Need
CRS 2025 wraps up with “The Conversation: Eric Church & Jelly Roll”, bringing together two of country’s most raw, authentic voices for an unscripted, no-holds-barred discussion. Given Jelly Roll’s rapid ascent and Eric Church’s rebel status, this session could spark major takeaways about the industry, future collaborations, or even unexpected announcements.
Why This Matters
CRS isn’t just another industry event—it’s where labels lay the groundwork for who will own country music over the next year. If an artist is getting featured at CRS 2025, it means the machine is already in motion: big label backing, major marketing dollars, and a plan to make sure their music is everywhere.
Bookmark these names now—by this time next year, they might just be the new headliners of country music.